Cases by region

Europe remains the first region of origin of the parties (44%), driven by France, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy. North America (24%) is dominated by the United States and Canada, with a high proportion of contract and provenance disputes.

These two regions use mainly English and French. They also supply most of the arbitrators on the list, but their share is shrinking as the list diversifies.

Asia-Pacific (17%) grew by 21% in one year, driven by the growth of the Chinese, Japanese, Singaporean and Australian markets. Authenticity and contract disputes dominate. The Middle East (8%) rose by 35%, with the development of the Dubai, Doha and Riyadh centres.

For these regions, hearings are often held in Singapore or Dubai, or remotely. The tribunal has accredited new arbitrators and mediators there.

These two regions account for 7% of cases, but are the source of many restitution and provenance disputes. Their participation is growing thanks to support from the Protection Fund and the training of national counsel.

The States of these regions are also among the most active in concluding bilateral cooperation agreements on restitution.

The council is studying the creation of regional offices in Singapore and Dubai, which would host hearings, training and Registry services. This project responds to growing demand from users in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.

It presupposes strengthening local lists of arbitrators and mediators, training registrars and guaranteeing uniform practices.